Roy Torrens awarded OBE

Ray Torrens, Ireland's manager, has been appointed an OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List for his services to cricket. It is due recognition for Torrens' work with Irish cricket, first as an opening bowler in an era when the sport had yet to flourish in Ireland and then as cricket administrator, selector and manager, trying to inspire a new generation of youngsters to take up the sport.

"It's a great thrill and honour for not only me personally, but also Irish cricket," said Torrens, 61. "I'd like to thank them for putting up with me all these years. I can honestly say I've enjoyed every minute of it. It's been a quite remarkable journey."

After retiring from the game Torrens served as a national selector, president of the Irish Cricket Union and manager of the Ireland team that upset Pakistan in the 2007 World Cup and progressed to the Super Eights. More trophies followed, including three Intercontinental Cups, and earlier this year, the ICC World Cup Qualifying Trophy.

Torrens has been congratulated on his Cricket Ireland's president, Arthur Vincent, who said: "I'm delighted that his hard work for Irish cricket has been recognised with this prestigious honour. It's fully deserved, and I'm thrilled not only for Roy, but his wife Joan and their family, who have been wonderful supporters of Irish cricket over the years."

A former fast bowler, Torrens represented Ireland in 30 matches between 1966-1984, taking 77 wickets at an average of 25.66. Domestically, Torrens played in a very successful Brigade side which won many NW trophies, before finishing his career with Coleraine. A good footballer, he won three amateur caps for Northern Ireland.